Every one of our non-profit organizations relies on volunteers to help maximize their efforts to make our community an even better place to live, and most people realize the value of volunteering at some point in their lives.
Retired folks are often the first ones we think of when volunteers are mentioned, but there are countless others who understand the value of giving of themselves and their time now, not later. Moms and dads volunteer at the schools or after school activities for their kids; younger and middle aged adults volunteer in activities around their hobbies.
Everyone who volunteers has his or her own reasons for doing so. It could be to give back to the community, to set a good example, develop talents or learn new skills, and especially to feel a sense of accomplishment.
The volunteers at High Country Humane have similar reasons. Some say “I just love being around the animals and knowing that I’m helping to care for them until they find their new homes.” Others say “I didn’t know I could do this work until I tried, and I’m so glad I did.”
People considering volunteering with us often have questions about what is needed. “How much time will this take?” or “I don’t want to get bored. Is there anything different that I would really love to do?”
When most of us think about volunteering at an animal shelter, the first thing that comes to mind is usually walking a dog or cleaning out kennels. These are definitely important jobs, but there is so much more going on! Right now, we need:
Why Volunteers are Needed to Foster
If you love animals but have a full house of your own or are unsure if a new animal is right for you, consider becoming a foster. There are many instances where an animal needs to be away from the shelter but is not yet ready to be adopted: moms with litters of puppies or kittens, or an animal recovering from a medical issue.
We currently have a dog in foster care who was diagnosed with a type of cancer that requires six weeks of treatment. Staying in the shelter while undergoing this treatment wouldn’t have been in her best interest. So, she is in foster care while being treated and will go up for adoption when her treatment is completed.
If fostering appeals to you, please know that we supply all the food, medical care and training… you supply the love and sense of security that animals need to become great pets.
Volunteers Have Special Talents
People with unique skills or special talents are also a crucial part of our team. We’re currently looking for a really good photographer who can help with capturing those inspiring moments when a new adopter connects with that special new pet. If you’re a good communicator, perhaps with a marketing background, and are proficient at Facebook, even better! This opportunity requires being able to come to the shelter for a few hours, a couple of times a week.
- If you’ve had experience or specific training in caring for animals in a professional setting, we would love to talk with you about your special skills. One of our newer volunteers is a certified animal massage therapist who works with the animals who need additional support to recover from surgery or from a traumatic event.
- If you love animals and meeting new people, we need help with offsite adoption events. If you love planning great get-togethers, then organizing our special events could be just right for you.
However you decide to help, know that there’s no better feeling than helping someone else, especially a vulnerable animal. As Mahatma Gandhi said, “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.”
If you’re (even a little bit) interested in learning more about volunteering to help the animals in our shelter, please go online to HighCountryHumane.org/volunteer-opportunities and fill our an application. You can also contact Shanna Harris at High Country Humane by emailing SHarris@HighCountryHumane.org or calling 928-526-0742. FBN
By Pamela Tharp
Pamela Tharp is a member of the High Country Humane Board of Directors.
